Tessellated by Fiona Oliver

Tessellated

Knitting
June 2025
Fingering (14 wpi) ?
35 stitches and 52 rows = 4 inches
in Stocking/Stockinette Stitch
US 1 - 2.25 mm
437 - 500 yards (400 - 457 m)
To fit foot Circumference Medium (20 cms/8 ins), Large (23 cms/9 ins), Extra Large (25.5 cms/10 ins)
English
This pattern is available for AU$9.00 AUD buy it now

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About this Design
One of the things that fascinates me most about knitting stitch patterns is the pleasing geometry that can be created by switching between knits and purls and using directional decreases and increases to create different shapes. The stitch pattern that I have used for these Tessellated socks brings together many geometric elements, including diamonds, big crosses, and tiny raised spheres.

The intertwining of these elements reminds me strongly of ancient mosaics. Mosaics are made by piecing together small bits of colourful glass, stone, or other materials to form a bigger picture or design. Each tiny piece, called a tessera, adds to the overall look. Mosaics often have a strong connection to culture and history, and you can find stunning examples in places like Roman ruins and Byzantine churches. Whilst not as spectacular as a Roman mosaic floor, the simple geometry in these socks reminds me of Byzantine and Moroccan tiled floors and walls.

These socks have a nice wide toe, a roomy gusset and a super-comfortable Fleegle Heel worked in a simple textured stitch. Whilst the stitch pattern in the foot and leg looks complicated, it has a natural rhythm that makes it a lot simpler to knit than you would expect. If you like this stitch pattern, you might also want to check out my Escher’s Blooms socks, which also have a lovely geometric vibe.

Size
To fit foot circumference:

Medium 20 cms/8 ins
Large 23 cms/9 ins
Extra Large 25.5 cms/10 ins

Please note that the completed dimensions for the foot circumference will be smaller than the actual foot circumference. This is because the pattern includes negative ease to ensure a snug fit. Please select your size based on your actual foot measurements.

Gauge
35 stitches x 52 rounds over 10 cms/4 ins in stocking (stockinette) stitch (used on the sole of the sock), knitted in the round using 2.25 mm (US size 1.0, UK size 13) needles.

Yarn
Approximately 400 metres/437 yards of 4-ply/fingering weight sock yarn that knits to match the required tension gauge (equivalent to approximately 100g of yarn with the label specifying 400 metres/437 yards per 100g).

The sample Tessellated Socks illustrated in this pattern were knitted with Crucci 4-ply sock yarn in Shade 32 Mustard.

Needles
A pair of 2.25 mm (US size 1, UK size 13) 60 cm/24 in circular needles. Optional 2.5 mm (US size 1.5, UK size 12) circular needles for the cuff.

Notions
Darning/tapestry needle.
Removable stitch marker (optional).
Blocking materials.

The Pattern
This pattern includes written and charted instructions, as well as links to video tutorials (produced by other people) for most of the techniques used in the design.

Technical Editing in 2025 by Emily Qoroya, Needles & Thimble (needlesandthimble@gmail.com).

Questions?
Please send all questions to capitalKNITS@icloud.com.

Please note that the price of this pattern includes 10% Australian Goods and Services Tax.